Byakushi Pond

An autumn hike along the Ikemeguri Nature Trail

Tristan Scholze Mar 17, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Early on in the hike you enter the forest</p>

<p>A clearing allows for an excellent view of barren Mt. Io (left) and Mt. Karakuni (right)</p>

<p>Two deer approached within a short distance of the path here during late afternoon</p>

<p>I hadn't recalled ever seeing this kind of mushroom before</p>

<p>A mixture of mosses viewed close up</p>

<p>This diversion from the main path leads up toward Mt. Shiratori for an overview; as the canopy opens up, you'll find more miyama kirishima, or Kyushu azaleas</p>

<p>The evergreen canopy in the late afternoon sun</p>

<p>Looking over the Japanese red pines to Mt. Io and the asymmetrical crater of Mt. Karakuni</p>

<p>The trail leads this way, ahead to Rokukannon Pond and the flat top of Mt. Koshiki</p>

<p>The sign on the right lists some of the notable tree and bush species, led by the Japanese red pine and Kyushu azalea, but also including fir, hemlock, holly, and others</p>

<p>Panorama with Byakushi Pond (left), Rokukannon Pond (right), and the flat-topped Mt. Koshiki behind it</p>

The first leg of this hike in Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park starts at the Ebino Kogen Museum Center and rounds Byakushi Pond, a shallow, roundish crater lake. This section includes forested mountainsides inhabited by deer and birds, seasonal flowers, shrubs and grasses, and spectacular views of the clear blue pond and surrounding volcanoes. Following the circular path clockwise will soon bring you to the next stage, Rokukannon Pond.

白紫池—byakushi-ike—Byakushi Pond

Tristan Scholze @tristan.scholze

I'm also known as Faer Out. I love learning about people and nature. I've traveled around the world and throughout Japan, and I hope to continue seeing and experiencing the wonder of this planet as long as I live.Based in Japan for nearly two decades, I'm a Japan Travel expert for Fukuoka and Sag...